Museum of Fire

The Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage sits inside the McDonald Road Community Fire Station in Leith, Edinburgh. It traces the story of firefighting across Scotland from the 19th century to today. The building began life as an engine room for the Auxiliary Fire Service in 1968. After moving twice, the collection finally returned to McDonald Road in 2023. Five historic appliances were installed in the new gallery before the public opening. The museum now occupies a single site once again. The exhibits are organised under five themes that show how Scottish firefighting has evolved. ‘Heritage’ explains how Edinburgh created the first municipal fire service in 1824. ‘On the Run’ displays fire service horses, early appliances like the Greenwich Gem, and uniforms through the ages. ‘Being a Firefighter’ shows the training, canine crews and family links that shape the job. ‘Your Safety’ offers modern advice on preventing fires at home. Visitors walk past restored appliances, a viewing gallery, and temporary displays on safety. The museum keeps the memory of figures such as James Braidwood alive. Equipment ranges from manual pumps to Dennis Limo appliances. The surroundings are those of an active fire station, giving the displays an authentic backdrop.